[2][3] The album features tracks co-written by Cook along with well-known songwriters such as Blair Daly, Zac Maloy, Kevin Griffin, Chad Carlson and David Hodges.

[3] Cook began work on his third post-American Idol album in 2012 after parting ways with RCA and relocating to Nashville, Tennessee.

Cook stated that working in Nashville opened him up creatively to trying different things and was unsure about whether he would make another record but he decided to write songs, have fun and to see what happens.

Digital Vein was recorded in Cook's home studio, where he worked with his longtime friend Andy Skib, who engineered, and the rhythm section from his touring band, playing the bulk of the parts himself.

"[12] Markos Papadatos of Digital Journal gave the album an 'A' rating, stating that "he is able to convey a wide spectrum of raw emotions with ease through his sincere storytelling.

[15] To promote the album, Cook posted video updates, sneak peaks of the new music, photos and other things on his PledgeMusic page.

Cook described the song as "lyrically ... a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde, young love against the world," and that it serves as a good synopsis for the record.

[19] "Broken Windows" was released and serviced to American hot adult contemporary radio on February 22, 2016 as the album's second single.